Tutorial for Vertical Flows 003 and 004 – Slanted Sides

Using Vertical Flows 003 and 004

Vertical flows are generally used to depict the steps in building value or to show a hierarchy in a process when pointing up and as a funnel effect pointing down. Vertical flows are also used when the chart/slide area can be better utilized than with a traditional horizontal flow (e.g., because of long strings of text, other corresponding elements on the chart/slide). All of the vertical flows are pointing downward, but can be flipped easily. The narrowing toward the arrow point implies a zeroing in on a target or goal. Use this framework with other frameworks or on its own.

Also notice that these two series' segments are arrow-shaped on the flow-to side. This is different than VF005, which is just a segmented arrow using straight lines. The difference is subtle: these flow into the next, VF005 frameworks are just segments of a whole without the flow.

This type of series works well as an alternative structure to an agenda page and then a tracker for the rest of the document.

Once you have identified the best-suited PowerFramework, download it to a specific location on your computer so you'll be able to find it (the desktop is always a good choice).

Customizing your PowerFrameworks Vertical Flow

Adjust size

If you want to change the size/shape of the PowerFramework, be sure to group it and resize the entire group. Once resized, ungroup to proceed with other customizations. You can also adjust the space between the pieces by ungrouping and nudging them.

Color variations

Select color from your document's color palette or a complimentary color so that the PowerFramework will reflect the color scheme of the rest of your document. Select "No line" if you want to eliminate the outline of the object, or change the line point size if you want thinner or heaver lines.

3D variation

A 3D effect adds volume to the PowerFramework, which can be accomplished within PowerPoint after it is imported. Use medium-size depth, like 24 points, so the shadow portion of the framework does not overpower the front, where the text will be. Be aware that the 3D tool, when applied, changes the color of the object and gives a shading effect as well. The layer order is important when working with 3D objects. After you apply 3D, reorder the individual objects if necessary by sending to back or bringing to front, etc.

Also, notice that the 3D color has been lightened. When the 3D color is too dark, there is not a lot of distinction between the sides of the 3D element and it looks indistinct.

Shadows

A shadow effect adds interest and dimension to a graphic, which can be accomplished within PowerPoint after the PowerFramework has been imported. If you want to place text above or below the framework and the shadows are in the way, the colors/shades of the shadows can be adjusted so the text will "pop."

Gradients, patterns, and pictures

Gradients, patterns, and pictures can be added as fills from the "Fill Effects" menu. Gradients, when carefully used, can also add motion to a flow such as this.

Animations

Animations of flows should be restricted to wipes, peak in, crawl in, fly in, etc., from the left or right to show a build and to enhance the effect of the flow.